South Africa beat Australia by 32 runs in the second ODI of the Australia tour of South Africa 2026/27, defending 365/9 to bowl Australia out for 333 in 49.5 overs. David Miller was the standout performer and Player of the Match after a commanding 142, while Temba Bavuma’s 103 gave the hosts the platform for a second straight victory and a 2-0 series lead.

Having won the opening ODI by 67 runs, South Africa extended their early advantage with another emphatic batting performance. Miller’s 142 was the centrepiece of an innings that reached 365/9 from 50 overs, with Bavuma making 103 and Matthew Breetzke contributing 34.

Australia did find a way back through Jack Edwards, whose 5/67 from 10 overs was the best return of the innings. Josh Hazlewood claimed 3/70 in his 10 overs and Xavier Bartlett took 1/70 from 10, but South Africa’s established total left Australia needing a record-breaking response.

Miller and Bavuma set the standard

Miller’s hundred ensured South Africa maintained control of the scoring rate deep into the innings. Bavuma’s 103 provided equally vital support, and their major contributions turned a strong total into a formidable one. Breetzke’s 34 added further momentum as the hosts finished with 365/9.

It was an innings built around South Africa’s two centurions, with Edwards’ five-wicket haul preventing the final total from climbing even further. Yet Australia still faced a chase requiring 366, and the pressure of that target remained throughout their reply.

Australia fall short despite Marsh and Head

Australia mounted a substantial chase, led by Mitchell Marsh’s 84 and Travis Head’s 84. Bartlett added a fighting 50, but the visitors were dismissed for 333 with one ball remaining, 32 runs short of South Africa’s total.

Lizaad Williams made the decisive impact with 3/70 from 10 overs, while Marco Jansen returned 2/72 from 10. Keshav Maharaj’s 2/54 in 10 overs supplied crucial control and wickets as Australia’s pursuit reached its final stages. South Africa’s attack held its nerve to convert a high-scoring contest into another series win.

Key performers

  • David Miller, South Africa: 142 runs and Player of the Match.
  • Temba Bavuma, South Africa: 103 runs.
  • Jack Edwards, Australia: 5/67 from 10 overs.
  • Mitchell Marsh, Australia: 84 runs.
  • Travis Head, Australia: 84 runs.
  • Lizaad Williams, South Africa: 3/70 from 10 overs.
  • Marco Jansen, South Africa: 2/72 from 10 overs.
  • Keshav Maharaj, South Africa: 2/54 from 10 overs.

NerdSports Stat: This match produced 698 runs across 99.5 overs, yet South Africa still completed a 32-run defence after Australia came within one ball of batting out their full 50 overs.

The result extends South Africa’s series lead to 2-0 in the six-match tour after victories of 67 runs and 32 runs. The third ODI is scheduled for Wednesday, September 30, before the tour moves into a three-Test sequence beginning on Friday, October 9.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the match between South Africa and Australia?

South Africa won the match by 32 runs.

Who was the Player of the Match?

David Miller was named Player of the Match for scoring 142 runs.

What is the series standing after this match?

South Africa lead the six-match ODI series 2-0 after winning the first ODI by 67 runs and the second ODI by 32 runs.

Who was the top scorer in this match?

David Miller top-scored with 142 runs.

When is the next match in the series?

The next match is the third ODI between South Africa and Australia on Wednesday, September 30.